I need some suggestions

[StraX22]

My CSX has the original motor w/ 130K mi. on the clock. Well, except for when I had to replace the headgasket and cyliner head (had some cracks) at 120K mi. which was the first time the motor had ever been opened up.
Now, I want to increase the power ouput to somewhere around, oh.... 300hp (roughly) while still keeping insane reliability. I'm planning on getting a heavily ported cylinder head, upgraded turbo, larger IC, ect.

I need to get some opinions on what I need to do to the bottom end. I'd really like to keep the original block.

I was thinking forged pistons/rods, and main studs or mabey main caps?

ideas? comments? insults?
Thanks!

[lametec]

Forged pistons, TII rods and TII crank, maybe?

Your block is still gonna be the weak link, though. Get ahold of a commonblock.

[ShelbyGLHS592]

The "myth" says that non-common blocks are good for only 250 horsepower. Some have experienced their non-common blocks taking more punishment than 250 hp. For peace of mind, I'd go with the common block.

If I were going to "hotrod" my all original GLHS, I'd store the original drivetrain and go with the common block/555. Since I have a beat up Shelby Charger, I don't have to do that.

[StraX22]

I think I'll try my luck with the original block.

What can be done to strengthen it?

[omnivore]

use a turbo 2 crank-it is forged vs. your cast one...much stouter.

[shelbyglhs222]

Well Its more the rods than anything...not really the other parts. I have about 4 thousand miles on my setup and I beat the living hell out of this car. Still on t1 block with lW rods. I heard LW rods are not as bad in a light car application.

[shelbyglhs222]

I run about 15 psi...its enough to break the tires loose from a 50 mph roll all the way to about 65 then it grabs. So im probably making atleast 250 horsepower.

[ieatrice]

Would a non-common block benefit signifigantly from MP billet steel main caps?

[glhsken]

Quote:

Originally posted by omnivore use a turbo 2 crank-it is forged vs. your cast one...much stouter.

OVERKILL... Not needed. Why have the 7lbs more rotating mass. All 2.5's are cast crank and they are torquey little things.

If you want to do things right:

Store the block and build a common block.

If not, Yes, you can swap over to TII rods and forged pistons (not necessary with a 2.2 though) Those are the only changes you'll need to make.

I hear the 300hp # thrown out a lot... I don't think people grasp thaqt while it is fairly easily reached... It's 90% harder than most think... At minimum, Big front mount I/c and an upgraded turbo with free flowing BIG exhaust.. Also many fuel mods...